It’s hard to exercise when you can’t feel your toes.
It can be even harder to get yourself to go to the gym, or hit the pavement for a run when it’s freezing cold out. It’s warm inside, you’ve got a blanket and a good book, and the last thing you want to do is leave the house. If you’re trying to push yourself to get in shape this winter, I’ve got some easy workouts that will make exercise a lot more tolerable. In just 20 minutes, you can get your heart pumping, get your muscles warm, and work on getting that toned body you crave.
The Power Walk
Get all your warm layers on, and get outside for a quick walk. Lots of warm clothes will keep your muscles warm, and help to burn some extra calories. Whether you want to go for just 20 minutes, or an hour, this is a great, easy way to get moving.
5 min: Walk at a comfortable pace (you should be able to easily have a conversation)
2 min: Walk at a fast pace (talking should be difficult)
4 min: Slow down and walk at a comfortable pace
2 min: Walk fast
2 min: Walk at a comfortable pace
1 min: Walk fast
1 min: Walk at a comfortable pace
3 min: Slow down and walk at an easy pace
*Repeat if desired
The Living Room Workout
Push the couch out of the way, throw on some good music, and get moving right in the comfort of your own home! With some basic equipment, you can turn your living room into a fitness studio that’s just for you.
1 min: Walk in place + raise arms to ceiling and hold (palms facing forward)
1 min: Side steps + open and close arms wide to the side with each step (palms facing forward)
1 min: Kicks + reach your opposite arm toward kicking foot
1 min: Knee lifts + touch your hand to opposite knee when knee is up
1 min: Travel + pump your arms in front of you (as if you’re rowing)
1 min: Double side steps + reach arms out to sides and close them with each step
4 min: Walk around the living room as you breathe deeply and cool down
Treadmill Trek
Treadmills can be boring, so mix things up with a variety of inclines and speeds to get your body working hard, and your mind engaged.
2 min: Incline 2% Speed 2.5–3.0 mph
4 min: Incline 3% 3.0–3.5 mph
2 min: Incline 4% 3.5–4.0 mph
2 min: Incline 6% 3.5–4.0 mph
2 min: Incline 2% 3.0–3.5 mph
2 min: Incline 4% 3.0–4.0 mph
2 min: Incline 6% 3.5–4.0 mph
2 min: Incline 8% 3.5–4.0 mph
2 min: Incline 0% 2.5–3.0 mph
